Species profile
Diptail Pencilfish
Nannostomus eques
Peaceful
Moderate care
60 L minimum aquarium
4–5 cm adult size
Top mid
Minimum group: 10
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
A calm, oblique-swimming pencilfish that does best in soft, shaded water with gentle tankmates.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–28 °C
pH
5–6.8
GH
1–12 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 10
Tank zone
Top mid
Territory level
None
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
0.45
Peaceful shoaler; nervous in sparse or brightly lit setups. Avoid boisterous feeding competition.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
Yes
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
60 L
Minimum footprint
60 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Nannostomus eques
Alternative names
Diptail Pencilfish, Brown Pencilfish, Hockey-stick Pencilfish
Native range
Amazon and Orinoco systems and Guiana Shield drainages.
Natural habitat
Shallow, slow forest waters with roots, leaves and overhanging cover. Use botanicals, plants and subdued lighting.
Diet & feeding
Small surface foods and micro-invertebrates; feed little and often.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males tend to be slimmer and more colourful; mature females are rounder.
Breeding
Egg-scatterer among plants; adults offer no parental care.